Chennai Metro to Run Trial Run on Poonamallee-Porur Route Today

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) will conduct trial runs on the new 9.1-km elevated route from Poonamallee to Porur today, April 28. This marks a major step under the ₹63,246-crore Phase II project, with passenger services using driverless trains expected to start later this year.

The corridor includes 10 stations: Poonamallee Bypass, Poonamallee, Mullaithottam, Karayanchavadi, Kumananchavadi, Kattupakkam, Iyyapanthangal, Thellaiyagaram, Porur Bypass, and Porur Junction. It falls under Corridor 4, connecting Light House to Poonamallee via Porur, and will be the first segment of Phase II to open.

Trial runs began last month between Poonamallee and Mullaithottam, despite some initial technical issues with the overhead equipment. Officials said subsequent tests over the 3-km stretch progressed smoothly. Today’s trial will cover the upline track, while work on the downline track and its overhead equipment is expected to be completed by early June.

During the first trial, trains operated at just 15 kmph. Today’s trial is set to average 35–40 kmph, with previous tests showing trains could safely reach speeds of 80 kmph. Currently, two trains are undergoing tests, and two more will join soon.

The trials assess braking, air-conditioning, acceleration, deceleration, and the overall performance of the tracks and overhead systems. CMRL officials said double resilient fasteners have been installed to minimize vibrations, but further checks are being conducted to ensure passenger comfort, including noise inspections.

“For many residents of Kattupakkam, Poonamallee, and Iyyapanthangal, this will be a useful link home from Porur,” said S. Bala, a regular commuter. “However, the real benefit will be felt only after the line connects to Vadapalani next year, providing access to the Phase I network.”

The Chennai Metro’s Phase II aims to expand the city’s urban rail network to 118.9 km, easing congestion and improving public transit access across the city’s growing suburbs.